Edema

Edema (American English) or oedema (Commonwealth English), also known as dropsy, hydropsy, fluid retention, or simply swelling, is the buildup of fluid in a bodily tissue. Most commonly, the legs or arms are affected. Besides observable swelling, symptoms may include skin that feels tight, the area feeling heavy, and joint stiffness. Other symptoms depend on the underlying cause. Causes may include venous insufficiency, heart failure, kidney problems, low protein levels, liver problems, deep vein thrombosis, infections, kwashiorkor, angioedema, certain medications, and lymphedema. It may also occur in people who are immobilized (as by stroke, spinal cord injury, or aging), even temporarily (as by prolonged sitting or standing), and during menstruation or pregnancy. The condition is more concerning if it starts suddenly, or if pain or shortness of breath is present. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If the underlying mechanism involves sodium retention, decreased salt intake and a diuretic may be used. Elevating the legs and support stockings may be useful for edema of the legs. Older people are more commonly affected. The word is from the Ancient Greek οἴδημα oídēma ('swelling').